Jakarta, Indonesianpost.com – Reported by Antara, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has expressed admiration for Indonesia’s pivotal role in hosting the 1955 Asian-African Conference in Bandung, West Java, which united developing nations to strengthen their shared interests.
During a joint press conference with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, Lula warmly welcomed Indonesia as the newest full member of the BRICS economic bloc, following its accession in January this year.
“Welcoming Indonesia into BRICS is like opening my home to an old friend,” Lula said in a statement issued by Prabowo’s office on Thursday, following their meeting at the Palácio do Planalto in Brasília, Brazil, on Wednesday (July 9).
Reflecting on the historic Bandung Conference, Lula underscored Indonesia’s long-standing commitment to advancing the causes of countries in the Global South. He emphasized the significance of the conference as a key turning point in the movement toward a more equitable international order.
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The Brazilian president also praised President Prabowo for his firm stance against the use of force in international relations and for advocating for justice on the global stage, particularly at the 17th BRICS Summit.
He noted that both Brazil and Indonesia share a mutual belief in resolving conflicts through dialogue.
“Like Brazil, Indonesia has consistently maintained that dialogue is the only solution to the war in Ukraine. I thank President Prabowo for Indonesia’s participation in the Group of Friends for Peace, initiated by China and Brazil,” he stated.
Turning to the bilateral relationship, Lula highlighted the two nations’ shared objectives in tackling poverty, hunger, and climate change. He also lauded Indonesia’s Free Nutritious Meals program, which aims to enhance the nutrition of schoolchildren, toddlers, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers across the country.
In his remarks on interregional cooperation, Lula called for strengthening ties between South America and Southeast Asia, noting the potential for greater collaboration in addressing global challenges. (BL)